A General First

“I thought,” Shanka said, “that it would be courteous, one general to another, to come speak to your directly about what I have to offer.”

Rastaban smiled. “I’m sure that whatever you have to offer is generous and enticing indeed.”

Her smile in reply was sultry, and Rastaban went to ease an arm around her waist. She was just as easily charmed as any other woman, then.

Except she had the blade of a dagger pressed to his throat before he could lay a hand on her. Her smile remained sultry, and she said,

“I am a general first, Rastaban.”